Shizuoka Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Shizuoka

Renting a car in Shizuoka offers you the freedom and flexibility to explore the region at your own pace. With a rental vehicle, you can easily visit key attractions such as Chibi Maruko-chan Land, a delightful cultural museum, or enjoy a relaxing day at Miho Beach, both located in Shimizu Ward. The ability to manage your luggage conveniently means you can pack for a beach day or a visit to the Shizuoka City Museum of Art without hassle. Additionally, you can explore the scenic beauty of Suruga Ward, where you can find Kunozan Toshogu Shrine and the Shizuoka City Serizawa Keisuke Art Museum. If you head to Aoi Ward, you can visit Shizuoka Sengen Jinja Shrine and the historic Sunpu Castle. A rental car allows you to make the most of your trip, whether you are seeking outdoor adventures or cultural experiences. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for families and those looking to enjoy the scenery without the constraints of public transport. Embrace the convenience of a rental car and discover the charm of Shizuoka and its surrounding areas.

Most popular car rentals in Shizuoka

• Economy: The Economy car option is an excellent choice for solo travellers, couples, or small families. It comfortably accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for up to 2 medium suitcases, making it ideal for those who need a reliable vehicle for exploring Shizuoka while managing luggage with ease. This option provides the freedom to discover local attractions at your own pace without the hassle of larger vehicles.
• Mini Van: If you're travelling with a larger group or family, the Mini Van is the perfect solution. This spacious vehicle can accommodate up to 8 travellers and holds up to 6 large suitcases, ensuring everyone has plenty of room for luggage and personal items. The Mini Van allows for comfortable travel and is ideal for group outings, making it a popular choice for those wishing to explore Shizuoka together.
• Compact Van: The Compact Van strikes a balance between size and capacity, accommodating up to 6 travellers along with up to 8 large suitcases. This option is suitable for solo travellers or couples looking for extra space without the bulk of larger vans. The Compact Van allows for flexible travel plans while providing ample room for luggage, making it a practical choice for exploring Shizuoka comfortably.

Top rated car suppliers in Shizuoka

• Hertz: Hertz stands out as the most popular car rental supplier in Shizuoka, providing a convenient location for travellers. Known for offering a reliable fleet, the Economy and Mini Van vehicles are frequently booked, making it an excellent choice for those needing flexibility and space. Customers appreciate the ease of managing their luggage and adjusting their itineraries on the go, enhancing their travel experience in and around Shizuoka.

Where to stay in Shizuoka

• Aoi Ward: Aoi Ward offers a blend of outdoor activities and scenic experiences, making it a great place for adventure seekers. This district features attractions like the Shizuoka City Museum of Art and Shizuoka Sengen Jinja Shrine, both ideal for culture enthusiasts. Nearby, you can explore the beautiful landscapes surrounding mountains and lakes, as well as enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of local hotsprings. Aoi Ward is perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and culture.
• Shimizu Ward: Known for its picturesque scenery and outdoor adventures, Shimizu Ward is a delightful neighborhood to stay in. Visitors can enjoy landmarks such as Miho Beach and Miho Shrine, as well as the whimsical Chibi Maruko-chan Land museum. The area is well-equipped with various dining options, including local wineries and restaurants, making it easy to indulge in the local food and drink scene. Shimizu Ward is ideal for both beach lovers and culture seekers.
• Suruga Ward: Suruga Ward is a vibrant neighborhood that emphasizes outdoor exploration and cultural experiences. Key attractions include the Kunozan Toshogu Shrine and the Shizuoka City Serizawa Keisuke Art Museum, both enriching spots for art and history lovers. The area also offers recreational spaces and shopping centres, allowing for a blend of relaxation and leisure. With its stunning mountains and lakes, Suruga Ward is perfect for those seeking adventure and scenic beauty.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Shizuoka

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer drives, or an economical car for cost savings, utilize the filters on Expedia to discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your vehicle well ahead of your trip. Booking in advance often leads to lower rates and better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in crowded areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 years may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or luxury models—might not be available. This could also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age restrictions before finalizing your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is typically the most advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the vehicle empty in this scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but this may be worthwhile for the added convenience it provides.
7. Know your payment options: Most car rental companies exclusively accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unexpected expenses and offers peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. Adding car rental insurance is a straightforward process when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you're planning lengthy road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is mandatory to rent a vehicle.

Best time to rent a car in and around Shizuoka

The best value period to rent a car in and around Shizuoka is January, when prices are slightly low and demand is average. This month is followed closely by February, which also offers reasonable rates despite lower demand. As spring approaches, March and April see increased demand and average pricing, making them busier times for rentals. In contrast, November tends to be the most expensive month, with slightly high prices and average demand, while December remains pricier with typical demand levels.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	40.6°F (4.8°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
February	42.1°F (5.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
March	47.8°F (8.8°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
April	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
May	62.8°F (17.1°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	68.7°F (20.4°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	75.6°F (24.2°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
August	77.9°F (25.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
September	72.1°F (22.3°C)	Frequent Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	63.1°F (17.3°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	54.7°F (12.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
December	45.1°F (7.3°C)	Light Rain	Sunny	Low	Slightly Low